Cavities: Is There Too Much Fluoride in Tap Water?

For the past 65 years, fluoride, which is naturally found in water and soil, has been added to the public water supply in most U.S. municipalities to help prevent cavities. While the fluoridation of water has been lauded as one of the greatest public health initiatives in recent history, it is not without controversy. To add fuel to the fire, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced last week that they plan to reduce the recommended amount of fluoride in public drinking water.

The announcement comes after a new analysis by the EPA revealed an increase in the incidence in fluorosis, which appears in children under 8 years old. Fluorosis occurs when permanent teeth developing in the gums are exposed to too much fluoride and results in white spots in tooth enamel. In the U.S., cases of fluorosis are usually mild and only noticeable by a dentist. However, severe dental fluorosis can result in pitted teeth with yellow stains. Although rare, skeletal fluorosis can result from chronic high exposures to fluoride and may result in alterations in bone structure and calcification of ligaments, ultimately leading to arthritis-like muscle and joint pain.

Fluorosis has been on the rise since the 1980s and is likely related to increased accessibility of fluoridated toothpaste, mouthwash and fluoride preparations applied directly to the teeth by dentists. Even some bottled water and other drinks contain fluoride. In the U.S., most fluoride intake derives from fluoridated water and beverages made from fluoridated water. However, if toothpaste or mouthwash is accidentally swallowed, it can lead to greater fluoride intake than intended. The new EPA/HHS recommendation suggests that fluoride levels in public water supplies be reduced to 0.7 mg per liter of water, down from the current level of 0.7 to 1.2 mg per liter.

To reduce the risk of fluorosis in children, parents can take the following precautions:

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The board of the Santa Clara Valley Water District (in California) held a public meeting March 22nd on water fluoridation. This summer they are scheduled to vote on whether or not to fluoridate the water supply. The board and their staff were given 20 copies of a 75-minute cd of doctors explaining the history, origin, and health hazards of this toxic waste. Doctors included John Lee, John Yiamouyannis, and Phyllis Mullenix. The audio is posted at the website http://www.MaeBrussell.com. Just go to the bottom of the homepage.

If people were to burn a cd of that audio and spread it around (especially to churches, schools, health food stores and health clubs) you might find it very effective in waking up the public in your area. Good luck.